Tamoxifen is a medication that belongs to the drug category of anti-estrogens. It is used to prevent and treat breast cancer in women by blocking the female hormone estrogen, which is necessary for abnormal breast tumor growth, according to Drugs.com. Tamoxifen is available in tablet form and is usually taken once or twice a day, states Medline Plus. If you are taking Tamoxifen, you should be aware of its medical side effects.
Dangerous Side Effects
According to Medline Plus, some of tamoxifen's side effects may be so serious that they warrant immediate medical attention. Dangerous side effects include restlessness, muscle weakness, fever, blisters, jaundice (yellowing of the eyes or skin), appetite loss, rash and swelling of your face, throat or legs. Tamoxifen can also lead to unusual bleeding, uterine cancer, stroke and pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lungs).
Mild Side Effects
According to Drugs.com, tamoxifen may cause less-serious side effects, including thinning of hair, vaginal itching, hot flashes, sore throat or cough. Users may also experience low libido (sex drive), headache, tumor pain and depression.
Signs of an Allergic Reaction
You may also develop an allergic reaction to tamoxifen. Symptoms of this reaction include trouble breathing, hives (itchy welts that form on your skin) and swelling of your lips, tongue and face. You should seek immediate help if you experience these symptoms.
